Who Are Anointed?

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

What follows is a collection of responses to various letters I have received, which contained questions about those anointed. It is a lengthy Blog, so can perhaps be broken down into reading segments.QUESTION FROM READER: I’m having a problem with those who claim to be anointed. One of the things that has always bothered me is the answer given when asked, “How do you know that you are anointed?” The standard answer is, “The spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are God’s children.” (Ro 8:16) Really? That’s it? That doesn't cut it with me. I was expecting something more, like a gift that was given by spirit. Something like the gifts also mentioned by Paul, prophecy, ministry, teaching, exhorting, distributing, presiding, mercy. But the one with brotherly love, without hypocrisy, and abhorring what is wicked is the most valuable of all gifts of the spirit. That especially would mean a deeper understanding of God's word.How are the anointed chosen? Is it due to qualities that reflect the personality of Jesus Christ, or maybe the time period in which a person is born? I can’t believe that Yhwh and Jesus choose those to be anointed in a willy-nilly fashion. There are to be 144,000 who will reign as kings and priests with Christ. (Rev 5:9-10; 7:4-8) On the scale of averages, that makes about 73 persons a year from 33 C.E. to 2010, to fill those positions. Is that number filled, or are there more to be chosen? Does the spirit bear witness to you when meeting another anointed person?Of course we know that on Pentecost of 33 C.E., 120 were gathered in a room in Jerusalem, to choose a replacement for Judas Iscariot. The holy spirit was poured out upon those present. So, that leaves the number at 143,880 to be anointed over time. Then there were the others of the time from Paul to John receiving the Revelation. How many would that be? We don’t know. Then there are those who became apostate, those mentioned by Paul, Peter, John and the other apostles.There hasn’t been any prophecy since John wrote Revelation. So all that is left for our day, are the other gifts of the spirit. So I have many questions to ask those who make the claim of being anointed. Why were you chosen? What is your gift? What are you doing with that gift today ? Are only those who are anointed, Jehovah’s Witnesses? Be careful how you answer.

REPLY FROM AUTHOR:
I hope I can help you with this problem.
Let me start by saying that the scripture you've quoted is actually true. God's spirit bears witness with our spirit, that we have been selected/chosen. But then, do we doubt the scriptures? Perhaps it would help to expound on that concise statement. I suppose the reason why anointed do not usually expound upon it is because the witness given by God's spirit may be different for each one. After all, people are not made in a cookie cutter, and Yhwh is able to give a tailored witness to the uniqueness of each individual. Remember too, that how one is chosen, can be an indication of which position God has chosen for them, within the body of Christ (1Cor.12:18,27-29; Eph.4:11-12; 2:20-22; 1Pet.2:5,9; 1Cor.3:16; Acts 7:48,50; Eph.2:10; 2Cor.6:16). For example, only a prophet or apostle would receive a spirit witness, that included visions (Num.12:6; Amos3:7).In sharing our personal experience, we would not want to give a false impression of what generally happens to all those chosen. It is also true, that for the anointed one to have no doubt that the witness is from God, would it not need to be of a supernatural nature? If the contact with Holy Spirit could be explained away by coincidence, imagination, etc., how could these ones be certain of the witness? Because the Spirit's Witness is powerful and unmistakable, an anointed one would be hesitant to speak of it in an atmosphere lacking faith. One would be asking for ridicule, mocking and incredulity. Such reactions would expose God's Spirit to public shame. (Matt.7:6) An anointed one would not want to be guilty of such irresponsibility (Heb.10:29).I am really just a babe who knows so little of the knowledge of God (Rom.11:33). But according to my limited singular experience, l will say from personal experience, that being anointed by God through Christ is a profound event...one that can never be forgotten. It is unmistakable in nature, and for me personally, it was also immensely illuminating. It taught me so many things, that I am still learning from the experience that took place 42 years ago. If you would like to read more about my personal experience of being anointed, you can find the account contained in the article, pearl-personalfile.blogspot.com . The account begins almost half way down that page.I believe that being chosen by God requires that His Holy Spirit makes contact with that one (Rom.8:16).I know of no other way, according to the scriptures (Acts10:47).Each of us are chosen personally (John15:16; 2Chron.16:9 A; Rom.9:15,16; Rev.5:9,10; 1Pet.2:9,10; Isa.43:10,21).I do not think it is just a feeling. When someone contacts us, we know it. How much more so, when that contact, is from the Creator.(Gal.1:15; Acts9:15; Rom.8:28,30; 1Cor.1:9; Eph.4:1,4; 2Tim.1:9; Heb.9:15; 2Pet.1:10).Feeling is with the contact, because God speaks to our hearts (2Cor.1:22; Eze.36:27; 2Cor.3:3; Jer.31:33; Deut.6:6,8; Heb.8:10). What does the spirit say/put, into our heart? Note these four scriptures:"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you" (1Pet.1:3-4)"And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our heartswith his love." (Rom.5:5)"whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior" (Titus 3:6)"Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, **the Spirit who calls out, 'Abba, Father.' " (Gal.4:6)**A father, naturally loves his son. The love God pours into our hearts, tells us of our adoption."Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and anointed us is God, who also sealed us and gave us the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge." (2Cor.1:21-22)Every anointed one with whom I have spoken about this moment, all claim that they felt overwhelming love being poured into their hearts, and knew the event was from outside themselves.For me personally, this occurred during a vision, because of my own place in the Body of Christ (Num.12:6).

We have Holy Spirit poured into our heart, like the oil of anointment (2Cor.1:21; Ex.29:7; 30:30; 1Sam.10:1; 16:1,7,12,13; Zech.4:14).
As far as the "gifts" that the spirit may give upon anointment, the scriptures tell us that these are given again, on an individual basis. The Bible states that God gives these gifts just as it pleases Him (Heb.2:4; Rom.12:6,7,8;1Cor.12:4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,18). Then the scriptures continue with a list of possible gifts (1Cor.12:28; Gal.5:22,23). We are also told that He places each anointed one as a member of a body, each having their own function...all necessary, all equal in value (1Cor.12:14-31). I know that I have been given some ability to teach and prophesy. Each person has their own strengths, abilities, talents and desires. Yhwh's name infers that He is fully capable of giving gifts of spirit, according to any consideration He pleases. Yet receiving such a gift would by no means remove a person's imperfections or their physical, emotional, or spiritual challenges that they may be struggling with. The gift of free will is with all of us until we die, and we all therefore, are still subject to sin and even unfaithfulness.
How are the anointed chosen? I have asked myself this question. The Bible gives a very clear, concise answer. "Yhwh's eyes are roving about in all the earth, to show His strength in behalf of a heart who is complete toward Him." (2Chron.16:9) I have personally taken this to mean that Almighty God searches the entire planet, throughout the centuries, searching through the hearts of humankind. He is not looking for outer beauty, money, intelligence, education, fame, skill, talent, hours in service, conformity to the arrangements and doctrine of an organization.....but, a complete heart toward the person of God.What does this mean? Part of it, I think, is that a person reaches the point of caring about NOTHING else but pleasing our Heavenly Father. Yhwh can, apparently, work with that. He will then lead them through learning obedience as Christ did (Heb.5:8; 2Cor.1:5; Rom.8:17; 6:5; Phil.3:10; 1Pet.4:1). He then refines them, preparing them for their unique eternal service (Heb.12:6; 1Pet.1:6-7; 1Cor.3:13; James 1:3; Isa.48:10; 51:23; Rev.9:5-6,18; Zech.13:9; Ps.66:11-13;1Pet.2:10,9).I also remember Jesus' words when speaking of young children. He said, "the kingdom of the heavens belongs to suchlike ones." (Matt.19:14; 18:10) So this augments our understanding, that besides a complete heart, Yhwh is also looking for childlike humility (1Pet.5:6; Ps.113:7-8; Matt.23:12; Prov.29:23; Micah 6:8; Isa.66:2; 1Sam.2:8).
If you consider what I believe to be the truth, there were always anointed Christians, as well as un-anointed Christians, from the time of Christ down to our day and up until the end (Luke 21:32,19; Matt.24:13; 28:20; 1Cor.15:24). And so, I wouldn't worry about the math. Our father in heaven knows how to count, and when he gathers in the exact number of the New Heavens, this administration will fulfill all of His purposes for it. There is no scriptural basis to believe that all those in the first century were anointed. In fact, the scriptures convey a very clear, different image.It should also be kept in mind, that the number 144000 is given to us in the book of Revelation. That book is written entirely in symbolism. The meaning of 144000 can accommodate any literal amount. (LINK)
As far as what the anointed are doing today....hopefully whatever God reveals as His will, to them. The scriptures give a large to-do list. Personally, at the time of my anointing, my heavenly Father also made clear to me, things He expected of me personally. These expectations were in harmony with scripture, but God clarifies our individual role as a member of Christ's body, through more individualized verses. In general and as a group, we would primarily be occupied with what Jesus asked of Peter......"Do you love me?....Then feed my little lambs!" Yes, Jesus loved his sheep. He knew he had to leave them, but he wanted to be sure they would be cared for. He asks his anointed brothers to do this for him. For me, writing you is part of that (Mal.2:7; 1Pet.2:9; Rev.5:9-10; Luke 12:42-43; Heb.13:17).
And lastly, are we his only witnesses? (LINK)Do you remember the transfiguration scene? When Jesus was seen glorified in Kingdom power, on each side of him stood Moses and Elijah (Matt.17:3). These two represent his co-rulers, also in Kingdom power. Many times the scriptures speak of the anointed as "two witnesses" Rev.11:3; Zech.4:11,12,13,14 (Moses and Elijah, symbolically ). There is much more to this subject, which I intend to write about and publish (There is a search box at the MAIN PAGE). But my point is that one of the primary purposes of the anointed, is to bear witness about Yhwh and Christ (Rev.20:4; 12:11,17). While Yhwh primarily views the Anointed as having this job (Isa.43:10,21; 1Pet.2:9 "chosen" witnesses/ "priesthood" Rev.5:10; 20:6), that by no means indicates that everyone else is excluded from witnessing about Him (Rev.22:17). In fact we are told that even the Creation bears witness about it's Creator (Psalm 148:1-14; Rom.1:20). If lifeless planets, vegetation and animals can glorify Him, how much more should ALL men?If you have been invited to the "marriage feast" (Matt.22:9,10; Rev.19:9) of spiritual provisions, given to the faithful virgins and shared by them (Matt.25:10; 22:8-10; Luke 12:37,42); you who "hear" are also instructed to invite as many as you find, to come partake of it (Rev.22:17).
And finally, "Be careful how you answer".....I have been careful, as I always try to be when doing service for my Father. I hope you have had some of your needs satisfied. Feel free to write me with anything else, and I will do my best.

The "anointed" are those taken into the "New Covenant". To read about this, you are welcome to go to:New Covenant article

Regarding your comment... " There hasn’t been any prophecy since John wrote Revelation. So all that is left for our day, are the other gifts of the spirit."...Please consider Acts 2:17; 1Cor.12:28,18; and Rev.11:3. If you want to see what the Bible says about prophesying in the time of the end, please consider pearl-prophecycease.blogspot.comAs regards your comment, "Of course we know that on Pentecost of 33 C.E., 120 were gathered in a room in Jerusalem, to choose a replacement for Judas Iscariot.".....you may want to read http://pearl-whowasthetwelfthapostle.blogspot.com/ , since men do not choose apostles....Jesus does (John15:16), and you will find much Bible evidence in this article, to prove that Paul (not Mathias) was the replacement of Judas. Priestly positions are by God through Christ; not by, nor through, men (Gal.1:1; Mark10:40; 1Cor.12:18; John14:10).

You also asked:"Does the spirit bear witness to you when meeting another anointed person?"One of the spirit's gifts mentioned as being given some members of Christ's body, is "the ability to discern spirits" (1Cor.12:10).Just like the other gifts (prophesying, teaching , healing), not all receive all gifts (1Cor.12:29) (except the apostles, because they are "first" 1Cor.12:28). The "ability to discern spirits" can be described in two capacities. The first is the ability to know if a teaching is true. Such teachings are sourced in "spirit" (Rev.16:13; Matt.10:20). The second, is the ability to recognize which of these spirits a person harbors in their heart.So my answer to your question is this:If you have been given the ability to discern spirits, and you meet another anointed one....Yes, you will be able to tell if that one is a brother in Christs Truth, or not. -------------------------------------

PART TWO

QUESTION:

I must say I have always been fascinated with the anointed and have seen first hand the rough ride they get within the cong for just claiming this. What will happen to them after the thousand year reign, will they come back to earth or continue on in heaven with Jah?

How do you cope with leaving your loved ones and even the earth itself and all that that would entail.

I would also like to say thank you for sharing what Yah has given you, as in visions and knowledge.At first I doubted you and thought it could be demonic experience.....but after leaving it with Yah I feel very comfortable in talking with you.I nearly was stumbled away from Yah but after two years of inactivity I wholeheartedly went to my God for help.I went to the memorial and during the service all was normal. After the service I was filled with such overwhelming love and forgiveness for my brothers and sisters. I was on a literal high of warmth affection and understanding for them. I no longer had any bad feeling towards them. So my question was answered and I know Yah wants me in his organization.I have a hunger for spiritual food but my poor brain can only cope with so much.So keep up the good work you do for I for one and i know many others really need this encouragement even if we are just the other sheep.

--------------------------First, regarding what will "happen" to the anointed when they are completed with their "Millennial" work...It first must be said that we must have an accurate understanding, of when the "thousand years" takes place (LINK) (LINK) (LINK) (LINK) (LINK) (LINK) (LINK) (LINK) (LINK) and a recall, that the anointed rule not only for the "Thousand Year" period, but also, forever (Dan.7:18). A clear understanding of those two eras of "reigning" (having divine authority and power), is imperative.The answer to your "millennial" question, is supported by establishing of the following facts. I will first give the scriptures, and then the concluding point that supports the final answer.

2Cor.5:17-20:"17 Consequently if anyone is in union with Christ, he is a new creation; the old things passed away, look! new things have come into existence. 18 But all things are from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of the reconciliation, 19 namely, that God was by means of Christ reconciling a world to himself, not reckoning to them their trespasses, and he committed the word of the reconciliation to us.20 We are therefore ambassadors substituting for Christ, as though God were making entreaty through us. As substitutes for Christ we beg: “Become reconciled to God.”

Once again, verse 17: "if anyone is in union with Christ, he is a new creation"Note associated scriptures...

Gal.6:15,16:"15 For neither is circumcision anything nor is uncircumcision, but a new creation [is something]. 16 And all those who will walk orderly by this rule of conduct, upon them be peace and mercy, even upon the Israel of God."

Hebrews 9:11,12:11 However, when Christ came as a high priest of the good things that have come to pass, through the greater and more perfect tent not made with hands, that is, not of this creation, 12 he entered, no, not with the blood of goats and of young bulls, but with his own blood, once for all time into the holy place and obtained an everlasting deliverance [for us]."

We see a few facts established...The "Israel of God" "Tent not made with hands" those "in union with Christ" "ambassadors substituting for Christ"

are also spoken of as "a new creation" (3X) "new things" "not of this creation"

So the question arises...In what way will the resurrected anointed be a "new creation"?

Well, to be created physical beings, is not new.To be created as spirit sons, is not new.

Outside these two kinds of bodies, there is no other creation.To understand how the anointed are to be new, we need to look to the outcome of Christ, which will be the same eventuality for his faithful brothers. How did Jesus become a "new creation"?

Before Christ, had any creation lived as both, spirit and flesh? No.Jesus experienced living as both belonging to heaven, and as belonging to the earth.

John 3:13:"13 Moreover, no man has ascended into heaven but he that descended from heaven, the Son of man."

Note the phrase that we see in many scriptures...the fact that Jesus referred to himself many times as, "the Son of man".This term highlights his established birth and existence in the flesh.Yet, also note another term that applies to him... Matt.16:15,16,17:"15 He said to them: “YOU, though, who do YOU say I am?” 16 In answer Simon Peter said: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17 In response Jesus said to him: “Happy you are, Simon son of Jonah, because flesh and blood did not reveal [it] to you, but my Father who is in the heavens did."(see also Matt.8:29;14:33; Mark 1:11)

These scriptures establish that Jesus was unique, in that he was the only creation to be born both-- as a physical man, as well as born as a spirit Son of God. (John8:23; 6:62)Yet, "he was the firstborn among many brothers", "that he might be first in all things". Romans 8:28,29,30:"28 Now we know that God makes all his works cooperate together for the good of those who love God, those who are the ones called according to his purpose; 29 because those whom he gave his first recognition (Rev.20:6) he also foreordained to be patterned after the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 Moreover, those whom he foreordained are the ones he also called; and those whom he called are the ones he also declared to be righteous (Rev.19:8). Finally those whom he declared righteous are the ones he also glorified."Col.1:18:"18 and he is the head of the body, the congregation. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that he might become the one who is first in all things".

We see here that "Christ's brothers" are to follow this same pattern of the Christ (1Cor.15:49; Rom.8:29; 6:5; 1Pet.3:18) (Eph.2:6; Heb.12:22-23)....that of a rebirth as spirits (LINK). Conquerors are given a new body, a spiritual one (1Cor.15:44). They are literally, born twice, or, born again (John3:3,5,6; Eph.5:26,27).[(John3:5; 1Pet.1:23) The "water" is the "Word".]

We see from the previous scriptures, that Christ was the first to be born twice, or, born again (Matt.1:18,21; 1Pet.3:18; 1:3,23; Rom.8:11; John20:19-20; 1:13; 1John3:9). We also see from the foregoing verses, that his faithful "brothers" follow this same pattern (Rom.8:9). Those sealed as slaves of God, are also born as spirit (1Cor.15:50,53). The spirit body cannot be seen, but is present within them (John3:8; 6:63).Christ was the first one on earth, to live naturally as both man and then as an immortal human-spirit (a hybrid, so to speak) after his being resurrected (1Pet.3:18; John20:19-20). Sealed anointed also follow this pattern, by also becoming this "new creation"...living in a full and natural sense, as both flesh AND spirit (2Cor.5:17; John11:26).

Now reason on this please....if God re-creates these ones to be this "new creation", will he then take this duel capacity and existence away? No, there is no scripture that indicates this state of glorious freedom as being temporary. Instead, the scriptures indicate that this freedom is given to them forever, just as it is given to Christ forever.

Why have they been given this duel ability and naturalness?

It is according to God's purpose that both abilities/states will be put to full use and function.

Yhwh would not reward these ones by frustrating their duel nature.In other words,if Yhwh recreates these new creatures to be both spirit and flesh, able to enter into heaven or descend to the earth;then this is what they will do.

This is a huge scriptural subject. It deserves it's own long article, and will receive it. All the scriptures depicting this, are covered in the Psalm 45 article, which will be released in it's entirety soon. (LINK) This activity and use of their duel nature, is the very structural essence of the "Holy City" that descends from God during the Thousand Years (Rev.3:12). It is the means by which the "tent of God" will be "with mankind" (Rev.21:3-5; 1Cor.3:16).

These "trees of life" which descend from heaven to bring their life-giving fruit and leaves to the earth; are Sons of God (Rev.22:1,2; Zech.4:11,14; Rom.8:19; Gen.22:18; 28:13-14; Gal.3:29). When in heaven, they appear before God's face (Matt.5:8; Rev.22:4). Yhwh has affection for them (John 16:27). They will always own their new spirit bodies. The ability to materialize into flesh, or de-materialize back into spirit, will never be taken from them. Although Jesus was the first human to be raised as Spirit (1Pet.3:18), he materialized in flesh at will (1Cor.15:4,5,6). Christ's resurrected brothers will similarly, always be able to at will, visit their heavenly Father, or, visit their earthbound loved ones. A "New Creation" indeed! Can you see this?

Although the job of restoring the new creation/priesthood/God's Temple of angelic messengers (Mal.2:7; Heb.1:24; 2:16) (Matt.19:28; Dan.8:14; Mal.3:1-3), will finally finish after the great tribulation and Armageddon (for the great crowd of remnant priests)... (after which the creation will then be ruled directly by Yhwh 1Cor.15:24-28), ...the glorious inheritance of freedom given these Chosen firstborn Sons, will not end, nor be given to others (Dan.2:44; John 8:35). Forever will they be a new creation, able to enter heaven, or earth. They will forever tell forth the Glory of the Father of us all, as personal eyewitnesses of His Face (Rev.22:3,4; Matt.5:8). They will have seen His divine light, that is filled with Love and Life. Forever will they bring it down to Gods physical children (Rev.21:11;22,23,24; 22:4). These are His firstborn...His firstfruits (Num.3:12; Rev.14:4). They are born from sin and death first (Rev.20:6). These faithful conquerors receive the "double portion" of firstborn sons (Rev.21:7; Isa.61:6,7,8,9; Job 42:10; Zech.9:12)! How gracious and undeserved! These ones inherit both the rewards of the heavens, and the rewards of the earth. (Luke 22:29; Matt.28:18; Rev.5:10)The scriptures may even be speaking of these ones having/enjoying their physical children (Isa.61:8,9; 65:23).

Jesus' Rulership and Kingdom is spoken of in two ways...*as being handed over to Yhwh after the perfecting of the New creation (ingathering/harvest of faithful kings/priests)*as being eternal (in that it will serve in some capacity, forever)

So, since Jesus made a covenant for a Kingdom with his Chosen Ones, just as his father made a covenant with him (Luke 22:29), then it is indicated that the Chosen Ones will rule in the same two ways. In fuller capacity, they will continue beyond this era, to be ambassadors, "trees of life", and priests of God's heavenly Temple, just as the eternal life of Adam and Eve was eternally dependent upon the original "Tree of Life"/"The Word". (Gen.2:9; 3:22,23,24; Rev.22:1,2; Rev.20:6)

Well, hopefully the answer to your previous question sheds light on my expectations concerning these sacrifices. But if such does not prove to be....

Paul said, all things are refuse in comparison to the grace of God (Phil.3:8).I have full trust in Yhwh... that he adds no pain to serving him (Prov.10:22).

Even if I stand to lose all I know, in my heart I love Yhwh so much, and appreciate His goodness, that I do not feel entitled to anything. If I am only given the power to give my devotion through free will, it is enough for me. To be the lowest slave in His house, is more than anyone deserves.

Any love I have for attachments of this life,I only hope that these ones too, will be found approved,and please Yhwh's face.

--------------------------------------Lastly, you say:"Are only those who are anointed, Yhwh’s Witnesses? Be careful how you answer."Who are "Yhwh's Witnesses"? A familiar scripture tells us. These are the very same verses which "Jehovah's Witnesses" use to justify taking that label. Did God choose "Jehovah's Witnesses" to represent Him?...Or, did they blaspheme, by presumptuously taking the name for themselves? (Rev.17:3) Even Jesus Christ refused to appoint such a position (Mark 10:40).Please re-examine the verses they use to justify the claim, in the hope that as was the case with me, your misconception can be guided into accurate knowledge by means of the Bible.Isa.43:10,11,12,21:10 “You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “and my servant whom I have chosen,so that you may know and believe meand understand that I am he.Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me.11 I, even I, am the Lord, and apart from me there is no savior.12 I have revealed and saved and proclaimed— I, and not some foreign god among you.You are my witnesses,” declares the Lord, “that I am God.21 the people I formed for myselfthat they may proclaim my praise.22 “Yet you have not called on me, Jacob, you have not wearied yourselves for me, Israel.28 So I disgraced the dignitaries of your temple; I consigned Jacob to destruction and Israel to scorn."I have emphasized some of the points that God's words make, because of their relevance to the misconception mentioned earlier.The individual Witnesses (2Chron.16:9) referred to in this scripture, received that position, not from men, but from God.Isa.43:10 clearly states that Yhwh's genuine witnesses, are those "chosen" by Him (Rom.9:16,18,23-24,21; 8:28-30; 2Chron.16:9; Eph.1:14; 2Cor.5:5). Could such a divine representative be chosen and designated by mere men? (Rom.2:29; Col.2:11; 2Cor.10:18; 4:7; John15:16,19). Can men read hearts? (1Sam.16:7; 2Chron.6:30) No. (LINK)This misconception occurred based upon the assumption that God had already judged and appointed the "faithful and discreet slave" over all his belongings in 1914; and that God installed not only those, but also the resurrected 144,000, over Christ's total kingdom inheritance (Matt.28:18; Rev.1:18; 1Cor.15:24; Dan.2:44; 7:27) (2Thess.2:1,2,3,4). It was concluded that all those in the association with the earthly "faithful slave", could also serve as God's Witnesses, because they were later mistakenly identified as the "Great Crowd". This is not at all what these verses in Isa.43 say, nor what any of the end-time prophecies, indicate.The symbolic last two prophets are called Christ's "witnesses" (Rev.11:3).According to prophecy, every one of them are "killed" (Rev.20:4; 6:11) (LINK).The nation created by God to declare His praises (Isa.43:21) is His Chosen priests (1Pet.2:9-10) (LINK)The Bible makes clear who God's "chosen" ones are [Col.3:12; Luke 1:78 (2Pet.1:19); Luke 18:7; 1Pet.2:9,10; Deut.7:6).It also makes clear what their assignment is (Isa.43:21; 1Pet.2:9). The assignment of the Priesthood is not to be rendered in the "Temple" by any other (Num.18:7; 2Chron.23:6; Heb.5:4; Eze.44:16). Only those chosen to be priests may render "acceptable service" (1Pet.2:5; Rev.5:9,10; Rom.15:16; Heb.13:15; Rev.1:6) in the Temple arrangement (1Cor.3:16; 1Pet.2:5; Eph.2:20,21,22).Any other arrangement is considered an abomination by God (Eze.44:6,7,8,9; 9:4; Joel 3:17), a "disgusting thing standing in the holy place" (Matt.24:15), "standing where it ought not" to be (Mark13:14)...."trampling" the priesthood of "holy ones" 2Chron.13:9; Lam.1:10; Rev.11:1,2; 2Thess.2:4; Rev.13:6,7; Dan.8:13; 1Chron.13:9,10; Matt.5:13).(http://pearl-disgustingthing.blogspot.com/)The next point made at Isa.43:10, is that these ones whom God chooses, are given by God Himself....divine knowledge, understanding, and faith in and of the True God (1John2:20,27,28; 2Cor.5:5; 1Thess.4:8). These ones are then said to realize, that besides this True God, there is NO other identity to be served or worshipped.Isa.43:11 adds the trait, that these chosen ones understand, that besides Yhwh and His expressed arrangement, there is no other means nor path of salvation (Eph.1:8,9,10,11,12; Isa.2:3; Rev.7:10).At Isa.43:12, Yhwh emphasized once again, that he himself is the only source of salvation, revelation, light, and divine proclamation among these chosen ones. No organization is cited as a means of salvation (Matt.23:10; Gal.1:11,12). God's spirit is the source of knowledge to those chosen by Him (James 1:5; Prov.2:5,6; Ec.2:26; 2Cor.1:21,22). Those chosen priests, are His messengers of truth and salvation (Mal.2:7; 2Cor.5:20; 2:15-17).Almighty God also finds it necessary to clarify and repeat, that there is no other object of worship and service among God's witnesses. At Isa.43:12, God concludes by saying that these personal students of His, teach what they know (1Pet.2:9; Matt.5:14,16; 10:20) ....specifically, that only Yhwh is the God deserving service, fear, and worship (Rev.4:11; 1:6; 14:7; 19:1; Matt.22:37; Deut.13:4; Eze.2:3,4,5,6,7; Luke 4:8; Matt.4:10), not an organizational mountain offering salvation (Rev.6:16; Zech.4:7; Mark 11:23; Rev.8:8; Rom.1:25; Rev.13:8).(http://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/02/jehovahs-genuine-mountain.html) This exclusive devotion indicates that only God is to be personally worshipped, served and glorified. This teaching would characterize God's genuine "witnesses"....but not the climate of God's people in the time of the end (Rev.13:8,7,10,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,4)Isa.43:21 adds more detail about these genuine witnesses. It highlights the facts that this new creation is being "formed" by God over time, into a group with a purpose (1Cor.3:9; Heb.9:11; Rev.14:1). That singular purpose is to "declare" God's "praise" (Isa.43:21; 1Pet.2:9). This would exclude working to accrue praise for any other identity (Rom.2:29; Gal.1:10), nor pointing to it's worldly power for salvation or divine knowledge. This singular purpose would certainly NOT include procuring praise for oneself (John7:18,16,17; Luke 17:10). For God does not share His glory and praise with any other identity. Yhwh's genuine and chosen witnesses, already know this (Isa.42:8).Do we have any scriptural teachings in the Greek scriptures to indicate who these chosen witnesses are (since Isaiah is written to those in the Covenant that has already ended)? Yes...those chosen to be witnesses of Yhwh...those who continue to fulfill Isa.43:10-28 are identified under the New Covenant Nation (1Pet.2:9,10). The people God forms for himself to declare his praise, based upon the knowledge they have received directly from His spirit; are clearly identified for any who wish to be followers of Christ (John7:17; Matt.7:20).But Isa.43:22,28 points to the misdeeds of those in covenant with God. We see that God divides His Nation in two. "Jacob" are the leaders who have turned to the power of the Nations rather than turning to God. "Israel" has subjected themselves to this arrangement and have become slaves to this new master. God says that instead of serving Him and declaring His praise...."Israel" is working tirelessly for something other than God. "Jacob" is not calling to God....not looking to Him for the provisions He has promised to provide (Isa.55:2; Rev.3:18; 13:17).For God to proclaim that "Jacob" is consigned to "destruction"/"the curse" (Isa.43:28), is a fine detail which warrants further understanding. "Destruction" is also clearly identified within end-time prophecy (Rev.9:11; 2Thess.2:3; Rev.17:16,17; Jer.4:30)We are also told that "Israel" is consigned to "scorn". Jacob is subject to a curse, "destruction". Israel suffers scorn. Why?Without rescue, Destruction is a permanent judgment. The scorn of Israel, is temporary, according to God's own promise (Isa.54:7; Eze.14:22; Mal.3:2). God is just, and this scorn is deserved. The behaviour of Israel is in violation of the context of these very verses of Isa.43. The "good news of the kingdom" is the redemption of Jacob from his enslaved captivity to destruction (Rev.13:7,10; Isa.48:20,21; Psalm 103:3,4,5). According to Rev.13:8, "all the earth" (LINK) at one point is worshiping the Wild Beast (Matt.24:24,25; Rom.3:10,11; Eze.22:30). This includes the "holy ones" (Rev.13:7; 9:10). This is why the faithful remnant of Israel (present in the time of the end) must repent in sackcloth (Rev.11:3,4); and learn to be willing to die for truth (Rev.6:9; 12:11) in order to be cleansed and redeemed (Zech.3:4,5,6,7; Rev.19:8).According to Yhwh Himself..."Yhwh's Witnesses" are the anointed "chosen" ones, as long as they are:worshiping God alone,are taught by means of God's spirit and Word exclusively (John4:24; 17:17),and like Jesus, they must preach and teach others to have an exclusive devotion and worship to God alone. In the time of the end, God's genuine witness prophets are only found among those who have repented of their violations to these commands.So, when you ask if I am a critic of "Jehovah's Witnesses"...No....I do not judge my fellow anointed, who are proving faithful according to God's own definition of who His witnesses are (Rom.8:33; Deut.17:12; Luke 6:37). This standard is according to Bible command (1Cor.4:5). You may realize though, that while I am not judging those who are working within God's guidelines at Isa.43; I myself, have been judged by my anointed brothers, beaten, and thrown out by spiritual Gentiles who act on their behalf (Matt.24:49,15; 2Chron.13:9; 1Sam.22:21; Rev.11:1,2,7; John16:2). Instead of obeying scriptural council, and coming to us personally; the governing body has dispatched it's "Beast"/Gentile elders (Matt.18:15; 5:23,24) to bully us. This is a cowardly act of opposition. It imitates the pattern of the Jewish religious leaders of the first century, who used the Romans to kill the "seed", Christ (Gal.3:16,29). This is the pattern of the adulterous harlot, riding the Beast (Rev.17:3,6; 11:7).Regarding the fact that I write admonition, corrections, and exhortations toward those who have been mislead into becoming counterfeit witnesses of God (Rev.13:16,18)...(pearl-666.blogspot.com)I do so because the Bible commands God's genuine chosen witnesses, to do so with urgency (2Tim.4:2; 1Cor.9:16; Eph.4:25; 5:11). Those who have been called into light, and all the grievous realizations that this entails, are directly responsible to herald this vital warning (Eze.33:1-9; Rev.14:7). There are many parallel prophecies concerning the time of the end, and the apostasy of God's chosen nation which has occurred (2Thess.2:4; 1Cor.3:16; Rev.8:10,11; 9:1; 13:11,9,10; 17:1,2; 2:20,9). Understanding the genuine message of the scroll of Revelation is key to conscious awareness of this condition. If a "chosen" one is neglecting to recognize these foretold realities, and declare them; That drowsiness will come at great cost (Rev.10:10; Eze.3:1,4,7,17,18; Luke12:46,47; Matt.25:30)

Thank you for your kind questions. If I have neglected any part of them, please follow up. If you have any comments or questions about what you read, please leave a note in the comments section.

Pearl

ADDITION:

A COMMENT I RECEIVED > Pearl!> I have read part of this, but there's just to much in it, too much meat!> Keep getting indigestion so to speck!!! I have tried a few time now> Get to the first part! And there's times am walking beside you! And can understanding you.> And then I find myself wandering off.> Is there anything just that bit lighter? For me to study.> Am trying to pace myself and sticking to the questions you put before me, without going off track!!> And l don't want to move from here! till l come to an understanding.-------------------------------------------------------MY REPLY:I am sorry you are having trouble. You don't tell me which part is hard, but maybe if I tell you this....Think of a family.A father, a mother, and children.The Father is God. The mother is a promise God makes, in His purpose to save us from sin and death.(pearl-thewoman.blogspot.com)The children are us, here on earth. But there is a difference between the children.There is the child born first (the firstborn), and the children born later.This follows the pattern God taught us, by means of the nation of Israel, and the Hebrew scriptures.Listen to what God said of all the human children and animals on earth...."Consecrate to me every firstborn male. The first offspring of every womb among the Israelites belongs to me, whether human or animal." Exo.13:2 (Exo.13:12; 22:29; 34:19; Lev.27:26) God then decided that he would choose a certain group to represent these firstborn. See who they are....."I have taken the Levites (priests) from among the Israelites in place of the first male offspring of every Israelite woman. The Levites are mine for all the firstborn are mine. When I struck down all the firstborn in Egypt, I set apart for myself every firstborn in Israel, whether human or animal. They are to be mine. I am the LORD." Num.3:12,13 (Heb.11:28; Num.8:15,16)Even though the firstborn (Levites/Priests) belonged to God; they still needed to be purified/redeemed/consecrated (Num.18:15,16; 3:46,47; Exo.13:2,15; Num.8:6,21; Neh.13:22) unless they were already designated as clean (Num.18:17; John15:3; 17:17,19; 13:10; Eph.5:26). As you can see, these "holy" animals, were destined to be sacrificed to God (Num.18:17; Lev.3:2; 17:6) While alive, these were not to work mundane labor/commercial business, nor have their hair/wool shorn (used for profit/exploited) (Deut.15:19; Num.6:5; Judges13:5; Col.3:2; Eze.44:15-20). These priests lived and served, as if it were always God's Sabbath Rest, by which these ones were owned. (pearl-sabbath.blogspot.com)The Levites of Israel were like a shadow of the real firstborn priesthood to come (Col.2:17; Heb.8:5; 10:1; 1Pet.2:5,9,10)God now invites the ones He chooses, to be candidates/electives, for the "firstborn son" position and it's priestly work (James1:18; John1:13; 15:16; 2Cor.1:21,22; 1Pet.1:3,23; 2Tim.2:15; Rev.14:4).If they prove faithful through Satan's testing (Luke22:31; 2Cor.11:3; 10:4; Eph.6:12; 2Tim.4:7; 2Cor.13:5; John16:33; 3:33,34; Heb.12:2,3,4; James1:12) they are sealed into the reality of a new priesthood of "firstborn sons" (Heb.12:22,23),of which the Levites foreshadowed (Rom.8:23; 2Cor.1:22; 5:5; Eph.1:14; Rev.5:9,10; 20:6). Like the firstborn "holy" animals meant for sacrifice (Num.18:17); these priests also must give their lives on God's altar (Zech.11:4; Rom.8:36; Rev.6:9,10,11) if they are to fulfill their full purpose and assignment as belonging to God. Jesus set the example in this, for those who would come to belong to the true priesthood reality (not the shadow example of the past). (John10:15,18; 15:13,12,17; 1Pet.2:21; Rom.6:3,5; 8:17; Phil.3:10).Who are anointed?They are those chosen by God to run the race for life now....to be among his "firstborn sons" in God's earthly family. These firstborn will receive a double inheritance and responsibility (Gen.25:31; Deut.21:17; Rev.12:5; 2:26,27; Psalm2:8,9; Dan.7:18; Rev.3:12; 20:6,5)...to restore creation (the rest of God's earthly family) to freedom from sin and death (John14:12 Rom.8:19,21; Matt.17:11; Acts 3:21)in the Kingdom to come (Jer.33:1-26; Rev.22:1-21). (pearl-holycity.blogspot.com) (pearl-materialize.blogspot.com)All Bible references to anointment, are regarding priests and kings, with the following exceptions:Genesis 31:13 where Jacob anointed the stone he had a dream onIsaiah 21:5 where a shield is anointedEzekiel 28:14 anointed covering cherubI believe all these to be symbols for the same priests and kings...Stone of vision -1Pet.2:5,9; Eph.2:20; Gen.31:13; Prov.9:1; Rev.1:20; 3:12; 5:6)Covering cherub of Eze.28:14 is referred to as being on the Holy Mountain of God (Rev.14:1), in the midst of the stones of fire (1Pet.2:5;1Cor.3:9; Eph.2:20,21,22). He is spoken of as having "an abundance of trade" (Eze.28:16; Rev.13:17; Eze.27:24,27,30,33,34; Rev.18:3,9,16,17,19) and as you can see, is referring to the last Harlot, "wormwood", daughter of Babylon, the false prophet, and yes...an anointedpriest, who fell (Isa.14:12; Rev.8:10,11; 9:1; 2:5; 2Pet.3:17) (Isa.14:11; Rev.18:22; Isa.14:13; Rev.8:8; Zech.4:7; Rev.17:3) (Rev.8:10 -- Matt.5:14; Phil.2:15; Dan.12:3), etc.Shield can be applied to any who provide spiritual protection through wisdom (Psalm18:30) as the anointed faithful priests also do (Prov.4:6; Ec.7:12; Mal.2:7; Isa.32:2).God's Word is consistent, and poetically beautiful.I hope this helps you to know who the anointed are.Love,PearlPlease send me any questions.